best nature programs in New York, NY

Swift Nature Camp is the perfect place for your child to spend their summer! Our overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 is located in beautiful Wisconsin. We offer a unique blend of traditional summer camp activities and environmental education to help kids increase their appreciation for nature, science, and the environment. We’ve got it all – fun, friendships, adventure trips, and nature! Spend your summer with us – you’ll never forget it!

At Yagilu, we provide challenging experiences that require participants to step out of their comfort zone. This can come in the form of a challenging hike, or a group game that encourages collaboration. This is followed by a debriefing session, where we analyze the experience and discuss the successes and failures. By going through these experiences, participants learn to recognize and understand their own strengths and weaknesses, resulting in increased self-awareness. Ultimately, we strive to help people become more content and confident. Through our activities and bonding experiences, we are providing an avenue for everyone to grow into a more self-aware and happier person.

Beaver Camp in the Adirondacks offers parents and their kids an unforgettable experience! With over 50 years of operations, Beaver Camp is a tried and true retreat center and summer camp. Whether you're looking for an adventure or a chance to connect with friends, Beaver Camp has something for everyone. The Camp Challenge Course provides a unique opportunity for campers to bond and grow through games, trust activities, and high elements. With qualified facilitators leading the way, your family will have a chance to be challenged and have fun in a safe and supportive environment. Don't miss out on a chance to make lasting memories at Beaver Camp!

Are you looking for the perfect camp experience for your kids? The Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church has the answer for you! Aldersgate Camp offers a variety of activities for children and youth aged 8-17, including swimming, arts and crafts, basketball, volleyball, hiking, and even horseback riding. And that’s not all—there’s an aquapark, woodworking, and even an ice cream breakfast option! Kids will have a blast while learning important life lessons and building up their faith in God and self-esteem. Aldersgate Camp is a great opportunity for parents to bring their children and youth aged 8-17 for a special experience. With activities like swimming, arts and crafts, basketball, volleyball, hiking, aquapark, woodworking, and even horseback riding, they will have plenty of fun and adventure. Plus, they can enjoy ice cream for breakfast! By the end of their stay, kids will have gained a greater sense of confidence and self-esteem, as well as a stronger faith in God. Bring your kids to Aldersgate Camp for an unforgettable experience! With a variety of activities like swimming, arts and crafts, basketball, volleyball, hiking, aquapark, woodworking, and horseback riding, your kids will be sure to have an amazing time. Plus, they can even enjoy ice cream for breakfast! Your kids will come away with confidence, a stronger faith in God, and a healthy self-esteem that will last a lifetime.

Skye Farm is one of five camp and retreat centers in the Upper New York Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church. Under the leadership of staff and dedicated volunteers, the camp is supervised by the Executive Director of Camp & Retreat Ministries, and overseen by the Committee on Camp & Retreat Ministries. The mission of Skye Farm is to live the gospel of Jesus Christ and be God’s love with our neighbors in all places. At Skye Farm, we believe in three core truths: that there is a God, that God loves us, and that God desires a relationship with us. All of our activities and programming are designed to reinforce this.

At Delaware County Camp, young people from across the county and beyond can find an incredible summer experience. At Delaware County Camp, campers will have the opportunity to form strong bonds with their bunk mates and explore the great outdoors. From cooking and camping to exploring nature, campers will experience a variety of activities and programs designed to offer an enriching experience. In the evenings, campers will gather around the campfire and join in singing songs and enjoying special programs. Delaware County Camp provides an unforgettable experience where campers can learn and grow as individuals. Through a variety of activities, campers will develop new skills, build lasting relationships, and create lasting memories. With Delaware County Camp, young people can explore, learn, and create an incredible summer experience.

Camp Hilltop has been a part of the Hancock, New York community since 1924. This beautiful camp is situated on 600 acres of woodlands and fields, with a private lake, in the picturesque Catskill Mountains, just two and a half hours from New York City. This summer camp offers a variety of activities, including water skiing, wakeboarding, trapeze, hiking, horses, climbing tower, high ropes, and many sports, performing arts and arts and crafts. We strive to provide a safe, nurturing and non-competitive environment, with a four to one camper to counselor ratio, overseen by a mature, skilled and caring staff. Camp Hilltop is more than just a summer camp; it’s a place where children and young adults can find a friendly and fun community and explore the wondrous possibilities in their lives. Whether it be for two weeks or eight, we provide a safe and supportive environment that encourages campers to develop their skills, build relationships, and grow in confidence.

Camp Nabby has been providing Westchester County families with summer fun since 1940. In 1970, the Bertino family, led by Frank and Flo, became the second owners of the then-called Nabby Day Camp. As an experienced educator and coach, Frank was eager to take on the challenge of creating a top-notch physical education program from the ground up. Prior to coming to Camp Nabby, Frank and Flo had spent 44 years at Riverdale Country School in the Bronx, where Frank held a distinguished record as an administrator and teacher. His greatest accomplishments, however, were on the football field: in four decades of coaching, Frank led Riverdale teams to an impressive 17 undefeated seasons and 17 Ivy Preparatory School League championships, with a final record of 247‑47‑6. Camp Nabby is a beloved Westchester summer day camp that has been creating lasting memories for families since 1940. In 1970, Frank and Flo Bertino were thrilled to become the second owners of what was then called Nabby Day Camp. Frank had the unique opportunity to design a physical education program from the ground up—an exciting challenge for a man who had a long and successful career as an educator and coach. Prior to their arrival, Frank and Flo had been at Riverdale Country School in the Bronx for 44 years, where Frank was an esteemed administrator and teacher. As a football coach, Frank was even more impressive, leading Riverdale to an amazing 17 undefeated seasons and 17 Ivy Preparatory School League championships, with a final record of 247‑47‑6. Camp Nabby has been a treasured part of Westchester County for many years. In 1970, Frank and Flo Bertino took over the reigns of Nabby Day Camp, a dream come true for Frank who had the chance to put his experience as an educator and coach to the test by designing a physical education program from scratch. Before moving to Mohegan Lake, Frank and Flo had been at Riverdale Country School in the Bronx for 44 years, where Frank was a highly respected teacher and administrator. His greatest successes, however, were on the football field: he led Riverdale to an incredible 17 undefeated seasons and 17 Ivy Preparatory School League championships, with a final record of 247‑47‑6.

At Camp Onyahsa, we strive to provide a welcoming environment for children of all backgrounds, abilities, and economic situations. Founded in 1898, we are dedicated to creating a safe and fun atmosphere where kids can build lifelong friendships and learn valuable skills. We prioritize safety, health, and happiness, enabling campers to grow and explore in an active outdoor setting. Our mission is to foster excellence in youth development, a goal which we strive to achieve through engaging programs. Newcomers are always welcome, and many leave with beloved friends by the end of their stay.

At Flying Deer Nature Center, children, youth, adults, and families are given the opportunity to connect with nature, self, and others. Established in 1996, this non-profit wilderness school offers a variety of ways for all ages to learn and grow through nature-immersion programming. FDNC's programming includes school and homeschool programs, summer camps, corporate curriculums, rites-of-passage experiences, adult programs, and outreach events. If you are looking for a way to help your child, family, or even yourself gain a deeper understanding of the natural world, look no further than Flying Deer Nature Center. Their nature-immersion programming was created for people of all ages and includes school and homeschool programs, summer camps, corporate curriculums, rites-of-passage experiences, adult programs, and outreach events. Established in 1996, this non-profit wilderness school has been dedicated to mentoring individuals and groups in deep connection to nature, self, and others.

This family has owned the colony since 1942, and it's easy to see why - the same warm and welcoming atmosphere has remained unchanged since then, providing a safe, secure environment for generations of families. The colony offers a lake, a pool, screened-in porches, tree-swings and a day camp for the kids - the only thing missing is playdates! Kids can roam around safely, without having to worry about organized activities. Families from all five boroughs of New York City and the surrounding suburbs travel to the colony, which is multi-generational and historically Jewish, but welcomes all denominations. Grandparents may even find their own children renting out bungalows for their own families to enjoy. This colony is a unique and special place, offering a safe and secure environment for families to enjoy, for generations. With its lake, pool, screened-in porches and tree-swings, kids can engage in activities the way they used to, allowing parents to relax and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a secure, family-friendly environment.

Since 1955, families have trusted THE MOUNT TOM DIFFERENCE to create lasting memories and foster positive youth development. Each group is led by an experienced, professional educator who spends the entire camp day with your children. Campers have the opportunity to participate in over 50 developmentally appropriate activities, including sports, swimming, and arts and crafts. We strive to ensure all campers build positive relationships, take healthy risks, try new activities and increase self-esteem. Parents are welcomed to visit our amazing facility for an initial tour with one of our directors. Upon visiting, many parents are reminded of the true value of a great camp experience and the good feelings from their own childhood camp days. We hope our website will answer many of your questions and encourage you to call us for more information or to schedule a tour.

Since 1989, Gate Hill has been a part of the Male family. Josh, Bob, and Jennifer, the camp directors emeritus, have been overseeing the daily operations of the camp and providing supervision to both staff and campers. However, the word “family” extends beyond the Male family, with campers, parents, and staff all part of the Gate Hill family. We want to ensure that our campers have a fulfilling experience, so we provide parents with updates on their child’s progress, friendships, and stories that make them smile. We are also available to answer any questions that parents may have to make sure their child has the best possible camp experience.

Whether you’re looking for a getaway with your family, a retreat for your church, a conference for your college or school, or a team-building workshop for your community service project, Camp DeWolfe has something for everyone. With programs for all ages and backgrounds, Camp DeWolfe is the perfect destination for your next trip or retreat. Programs are tailored to fit your individual needs, allowing you to create the perfect experience. Plus, with plenty of volunteer opportunities, you can give back to the community and create lasting memories. Camp DeWolfe is a great destination for anyone looking to get away and experience the beauty of the Long Island Sound. With programs for all ages and backgrounds, Camp DeWolfe is sure to leave an impression that will last a lifetime. For a truly unforgettable experience, visit Camp DeWolfe today!

At Camp Talooli, we have been providing the highest standard of overnight camp experiences for the children, youth, and families of Central New York since 1945. Our commitment to the safety and wellbeing of our campers is paramount. That is why we have voluntarily sought accreditation by the American Camp Association, with whom we partner to ensure that our camp meets more than 300 industry standards. Therefore, parents can rest assured that their children are in safe hands at Camp Talooli. Our ACA trained visitors visit the camp every five years to verify that our staff qualifications, training, emergency management, and site and facilities management conform to the highest standards. We are proud to have achieved full accreditation each time.

At The Rinx, we are proud to offer recreational enjoyment for all ages. Our 97-acre Hidden Pond Park in Hauppauge, New York, is home to two full-size indoor ice rinks, as well as the Time Out Cafe, perfect for hosting birthday parties. We are also proud to offer a Rinx Preschool Academy, where your child can receive educational guidance and support. We have something for everyone! Whether you're looking for a fun family outing or an educational experience for your child, The Rinx has you covered. Our 97-acre park located in Hauppauge, New York, is home to two full-size indoor ice rinks, perfect for skating or hosting parties. Our Time Out Cafe is the ideal setting for birthday celebrations, and our Rinx Preschool Academy provides your youngster with the guidance and support they need to progress. Come explore all that The Rinx has to offer! The Rinx is dedicated to providing recreational enjoyment and educational experiences for all ages. Our Hidden Pond Park is located on 97 acres of land in Hauppauge, New York, and is home to two full-size indoor ice rinks, as well as the Time Out Cafe, ideal for hosting birthday parties. We also offer a Rinx Preschool Academy, where your child can receive the support and guidance they need to grow and develop. Come to The Rinx and see all that we have to offer!

Rushford, New York is home to the unique and diverse outdoor destination of Hanging Bog Wildlife Management Area. This lush area comprises 4,500 acres of natural hardwood forests, conifer plantations, fields, streams, marshes, and a bog. Located just two miles away from Rushford Lake, this area offers families a chance to explore and learn about nature. At the center of this area is Camp Rushford, the only DEC Camp specifically built for conservation education. Constructed out of logs salvaged from the Adirondacks after the blow down of 1950, Camp Rushford is the perfect place for families to take part in interactive activities and classes designed to educate and entertain. Whether you're looking for a fun outdoor adventure or an educational experience, Hanging Bog Wildlife Management Area has something for everyone. With its unique and diverse landscape, Camp Rushford at its center, and Rushford Lake nearby, it's the perfect place to explore and learn about nature.

At Baltimore Woods Nature Center, we understand the importance of connecting with nature. That's why we provide Central New York families with a variety of immersive programs and activities to foster a deep appreciation for the natural world. Our 182-acre property in Marcellus is the ideal place to explore outdoors and discover the wonders of nature. We've been part of the local community since 1966 and are committed to helping families develop a lasting stewardship for our environment. Come experience nature with us - Baltimore Woods Nature Center puts nature in your hands! Baltimore Woods Nature Center has been part of the Central New York community since 1966 and is dedicated to helping families build an enduring bond with nature. With an array of programs and activities, our 182-acre property in Marcellus is the perfect place for families to explore the outdoors and learn more about the environment. From nature day camps to public programs and research opportunities, we make it easy for families to cultivate a lasting stewardship of our natural world. Come join us - let us put nature in your hands!

At Oasis Day Camp, your child will have the chance to experience something truly unique! From the welcoming staff to the secure and up-to-date facilities, this camp is an ideal spot for kids to explore their creativity, passions, and relationships. The involved mentors and knowledgeable camp directors are members of the local community who are dedicated to creating a feeling of inclusion, strength, and security. With Oasis, your child is sure to create treasured memories and forge lifelong friendships. Oasis Day Camp presents your little one with an unprecedented opportunity! From the friendly staff to the well-maintained and advanced facilities, this camp is the best place for kids to let their imaginations run wild, discover their interests, and form beautiful friendships. The nurturing role models and seasoned camp directors are part of the local area and are passionate about offering a sense of belonging, empowerment, and support. At Oasis, your child is guaranteed to make lasting memories and friends that will stick with them for a lifetime.

At Camp Regis Applejack, we know that kids and teens need a place to unplug from their daily lives and just be kids. Our camp is committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment where kids and teens can have the kind of summer camp experience that will stay with them for a lifetime. With a wide variety of activities and programs, there is something for everyone at Camp Regis Applejack. Since 1946, Camp Regis Applejack has been providing a unique camp experience for kids and teens of all backgrounds. We understand that summer camp is so much more than just another activity; it’s about building relationships, strengthening self-confidence, and making lasting memories. Our campers come from all over the world to be part of our community and create a summer they won’t soon forget. We are proud to be one of the first non-denominational, racially inclusive camps in the U.S., and we strive to make sure everyone has an unforgettable summer camp experience.

At Oasis Day Camp, your child can feel loved, accepted and cared for in a warm and nurturing atmosphere. Our passionate and experienced caregivers and teachers are part of the local community and will ensure your child’s safety through age-appropriate activities. Our camp directors are childcare professionals who will help your child build a sense of belonging, strength and support while having the time of their life. With us, your child will grow, create unforgettable memories and make lifelong friends. At Oasis Day Camp, we prioritize the safety and wellbeing of your child and ensure that their interests, creativity, and friendships are nurtured in a supportive and caring environment. Our team of experienced and passionate caregivers and teachers are members of the local community and are dedicated to providing exciting age-appropriate activities. Our caring camp directors are childcare professionals who will ensure that your child has the opportunity to gain strength, power and support while having a fun-filled adventure. With us, your child will make meaningful memories and create lasting friendships.

At Eagle Island, Inc., we are proud to be a part of preserving this beloved summer camp and historic landmark. Our organization was formed in 2011 by an enthusiastic group of alumni and friends, and our membership spans over seven decades. We have been working diligently to ensure that Eagle Island will remain open for future generations to enjoy. We are so grateful for the help of our dedicated staff, campers, family campers, neighbors, and everyone else who has joined us in this mission. Together, we can keep the spirit of Eagle Island alive for years to come. From the 1930s to the 2000s, we look forward to continuing to share our love and appreciation for this special place.

At Peconic Dunes, we understand the significance of forming lasting friendships. Our camp activities are designed to provide opportunities for campers to build meaningful connections with each other. Our traditions help create special memories that will last a lifetime. We have created an environment where every camper can feel safe and comfortable to foster deeper connections. We are committed to having fun while learning and our counselors are passionate about creating a positive and enjoyable experience for all campers. At Peconic Dunes, we recognize the importance of making long-lasting friendships. Our camp activities have been developed to enable campers to form meaningful relationships with their peers. We provide a safe and comfortable space to encourage deeper connections. Our traditions help to create memories that will last a lifetime. We believe in having fun while learning and our counselors are dedicated to creating a positive and rewarding experience for all campers. At Peconic Dunes, we recognize the importance of cultivating lasting friendships. We strive to create a secure and relaxed atmosphere to enable campers to develop meaningful relationships with each other. Our traditions help to form special memories that will stay with them forever. We believe in having fun while learning, and our counselors are passionate about creating a positive, enjoyable experience for all campers.

We are thrilled to introduce Kara Hallett as the new Camp Director at 4-H Camp Owahta! Hailing from Warren Center, Pennsylvania, Kara fondly remembers the summers she spent attending camps at El Rancho de Paz (now Mapleridge Ranch) and Montrose Bible Conference. One of Kara's favorite memories from camp is playing four square with her two older sisters in the gym. She was so excited for her first year at camp that she even fell asleep on the gym floor! We are confident that Kara will bring her enthusiasm and dedication to 4-H Camp Owahta, and we are excited to have her join the camp's leadership team. We can't wait to see what amazing experiences she will create for the campers this year!

At Adirondack Camp, your child can feel free to explore, take risks, and be themselves. Our safe and supportive environment ensures that your child can relax in the knowledge that they are secure and protected. Bunk life, mealtime, and camping sleepovers are just a few of the special moments that will create lasting memories for your child. Our camp culture is focused on providing a respite from the everyday stresses of life, so your child can make the most of every moment. At Adirondack Camp, we believe that the in-between moments are just as important as the big ones. We strive to create a summer experience that your child will never forget.

At Akahiao, we are dedicated to building a community of passionate, eco-conscious leaders who have the determination and abilities to create the world they hope to see. We want to inspire the next generation to take a stand against any environmental issues that arise, and to do more than just watch the future unfold without them. Our students will be like the Polynesian navigators, guiding their ships to the islands in the sea – they will be empowered to bring their ideal future into reality. At Akahiao, we are striving to create a community of knowledgeable and effective environmental champions. These leaders will have the commitment and the aptitude to manifest their vision of the future, no matter the odds. We want to equip our students with the tools to actively shape the world around them, instead of standing by as the future passes them by. Our students will be like the navigators of the ancient Polynesian islands, bravely sailing the seas to reach their destination – they will take the initiative to bring their dreams to life. At Akahiao, we are focused on nurturing an empowered group of ecological stewards. This cohort of young people will have the courage and the know-how to bring about the future they have imagined. They will be the first to stand up for our planet when it comes to facing difficult environmental issues. Instead of feeling powerless while watching the future tumble down the hill, our participants will take the lead and manifest their dreams into reality, just like the Polynesian navigators who discovered islands in the sea.

Welcome to 4-H Camp Bristol Hills! For nearly a century, we have been providing a safe and fun environment for children to develop into successful and responsible adults. Our campers have the chance to learn, grow, and have a positive experience under the guidance of caring role models. Our website provides all the information you need to enroll your child in summer camp or to rent our facilities for a group program during the Spring or Fall. At 4-H Camp Bristol Hills, we believe that providing children with an appreciation for the environment is key to helping them reach their full potential. We strive to create a space for kids to explore and learn in a safe and nurturing environment. Our campers have the opportunity to gain a greater understanding of the world around them, develop important skills, and create lifelong memories. We are committed to providing an enriching experience for children of all ages. Our website provides all the necessary information you need to enroll in summer camp or rent our facilities for a group program. We look forward to helping your kids grow and develop into their best selves!

At YMCA Camp Chingachgook, we want to ensure that everyone feels welcome and safe. We strive to create an environment where people of all ages can grow and learn together. Our comprehensive programs promote the development of a healthy body, mind, and spirit, while teaching important values such as confidence, social responsibility, and an appreciation for the natural environment. We are committed to making sure our campers are equipped to become better stewards of the world and create a brighter future. At YMCA Camp Chingachgook, our mission is to prepare campers of all ages for the future. Our programs are designed to foster growth in both physical and mental health, while also instilling important values such as confidence, social responsibility, and respect for the environment. By creating an inclusive and safe atmosphere, we are able to encourage campers to become better stewards of the world. We believe that our efforts today will lead to a brighter tomorrow.